Instructions for Installing BoxBilling on AlmaLinux 9
BoxBilling, a free and open-source billing and client management system, is now available for installation on AlmaLinux 9. This article will walk you through the process of setting up a server instance for BoxBilling, ensuring a news and long-term supported environment.
Step 1: Preparation
Begin by downloading the BoxBilling zip file and extracting it into a new folder. Update your system, install Apache Web Server, MariaDB, EPEL Repository, Remi Repository for PHP 8.2, PHP and Extensions, and secure MariaDB installation.
Step 2: Configuration
Open a new Apache configuration file and edit it to include BoxBilling settings. Create Cache and upload directories required by BoxBilling, and set permissions so Apache can write to the new directories. A new database named for BoxBilling is created in MariaDB, and a new user for BoxBilling with a strong password is created as well.
Step 3: Installation
Run BoxBilling on AlmaLinux 9 with all dependencies and configuration in place. PHP memory and upload limits are increased in the PHP configuration file, and proper permissions are set for BoxBilling files to be readable and executable by the server.
Step 4: Completion
Apache is set as the owner of all BoxBilling files, and a new Apache configuration file is opened and edited to include BoxBilling settings. BoxBilling is installed on AlmaLinux 9, and a MySQL root password is set during the MariaDB securing process. Remote root logins are disallowed, test databases are removed, and permissions are set so that the BoxBilling user can have full permissions on the BoxBilling database in MariaDB.
Accessing BoxBilling
Users can access the BoxBilling installation by opening their browser to the specified URL. After successful installation, users can log in to BoxBilling using their administrator credentials.
BoxBilling Features
BoxBilling offers complete automation for billing, product provisioning, invoicing, and notifications. It brings together invoicing, client management, product automation, domain registration, and support ticketing into one platform. BoxBilling is suitable for freelancers, startups, and small hosting companies who need billing automation without expensive licenses.
Recommended Hosting
Shape.Host Cloud VPS is recommended for high-performance hosting with easy BoxBilling management. Using Shape.Host, you can set up a server instance for BoxBilling with a beginner-friendly process.
Security Measures
The setup provides a news and scalable billing and client management platform. AlmaLinux 9, an RHEL-compatible enterprise Linux distribution, ensures a secure, stable, and long-term supported environment. SSL certificates can be generated and installed using Certbot (optional).
BoxBilling Integrations
BoxBilling includes hosting integrations with domain registrars, hosting panels, and provisioning tools. It offers a centralized portal for clients, orders, and support tickets. BoxBilling can be extended and adapted to a wide range of business models due to its plugin architecture and theme customization.
BoxBilling vs. Competitors
Unlike WHMCS or Blesta, BoxBilling is free with no recurring license fees. It provides a comprehensive solution for web hosting providers, freelancers, and digital businesses.
Conclusion
Installing BoxBilling on AlmaLinux 9 offers a news, scalable, and cost-effective solution for businesses seeking billing and client management automation. With its wide range of features and integrations, BoxBilling is an excellent choice for freelancers, startups, and small hosting companies.